Manuscript DS, signed “George R,” one page both sides, 7.75 x 12, October 3, 1807. Document directing that the seal of Great Britain be “applied to an Instrument bearing date with these Presents (a copy whereof is hereunto annexed) containing Our Full Power to Our Trusty and Wellbeloved George Henry Rose Esquire, authorizing and empowering him to treat and agree with the Minister or Ministers of Our Good Friends The United States of America.” Signed at the top by King George and countersigned at the conclusion by Foreign Secretary George Canning. The three-page instrument referenced remains attached by its original blue silk ribbon, stating that the object of the negotiations with the United States was “for adjusting and terminating all differences which have arisen between Us and the said United States in consequence of the Encounter between Our Ship of War the Leopard, and the Frigate of the United States the Chesapeake.” The white paper seal affixed to the first page remains fully intact. In fine condition.
This document concerns the Chesapeake–Leopard Affair, an important naval engagement that strained the already tense relationship between England and America. During the Napoleonic Wars many British sailors had deserted the Royal Navy to seek sanctuary in the United States, with many of them entering into service on American vessels. Determined to recover these seamen, the British claimed the right to stop and search American ships for them. On June 22, 1807, the HMS Leopard demanded to search the American frigate USS Chesapeake. Meeting weak resistance, the HMS Leopard fired into the USS Chesapeake, killing three of the crewmen and wounding eighteen. The incident outraged the American public, with many calling for war. With this document, King George dispatched the experienced diplomat George Rose to handle the situation. While his skillful negotiations avoided war at that time, the simmering tension between the nations on the high seas would erupt in the War of 1812 five years later. Pre-certified PSA/DNA.
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